Let us be clear: ‘physical altercation’ is code for fight. And while Paxson vs. Del Negro isn’t exactly Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier or even Georges St. Pierre vs. Dan Hardy, their wee donnybrook is sufficient grounds for Michael Jordan’s backcourt mate to finally be fired.

As soon as Chicago’s season ends, at the first possible moment, Paxson has to go. Get the pink slip ready. Keep security on-call to escort him from the building and assist in his inevitable walk of shame. And, for god’s sake, start changing the locks and security codes at the United Center.

Simply put, Paxson crossed a line there’s no returning from. At a minimum, front office suits should set an example in the workplace, especially when they make six-to-seven figures and do a very average job.

Instead of modelling professionalism for the players and co-workers, Paxson engaged in boorish behaviour. Now he looks like a hypocrite. After all, didn’t Paxson lead the charge to suspend Noah when he copped attitude as a rookie? Wasn’t Tyrus Thomas traded to the Charlotte Bobcats, in part, because he refused to listen to Del Negro and the coaches?

None of that matters. Not one bit. This is all about Paxson holding himself to the same standard as everybody else, a standard he set.

Bottom line: Paxson lacks the credibility to do or keep his job. And the Bulls must fire him to keep what little credibility they still have.
Should Chicago fire Paxson? Let us know in the comment box below. Photo courtesy of Joel Brigham.